Top 5 vacation attractions in Orlando besides Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World Resort

Sometimes when people think of Orlando they immediately think of Disney, Universal and SeaWorld. Whether you think of Orlando as the land of Mickey Mouse, a place to ride roller coasters and take a trip to “Hollywood” or a place to see Shamu, you should also be aware that Orlando offers plenty more to do. Here are five that are worth checking out:

1. International Drive

No matter what your reason for coming to Orlando is, you may consider staying on International Drive. Featuring more than 100 hotels, over 485 designer outlet stores, more than 150 restaurants, miniature golf, entertainment complexes and a Convention Center, Orlando’s International Drive is an attraction in itself. Here you can do some indoor skydiving, ride on water slides, get a tattoo, take a helicopter tour, ride go-karts, go to a themed dinner, see a wacky museum, buy souvenirs at a gift shop and more. Walk down International Drive, take the I-Ride Trolley, take a bus/shuttle or drive your car. Whichever means of transportation you choose, this area is certainly worth checking out!

2. Fun Spot

Featuring both free admission and free parking, Fun Spot is home to multi-level go-kart tracks, a variety of carnival-style rides and an arcade that are sure to provide you with hours of fun. And if you need a break, there’s a snack bar where you can enjoy a quick snack or a delicious meal. There’s even a shuttle that will pick you up from your I-Drive area hotel!

3. Gatorland

Did you know that Orlando is home to the Alligator Capital of the World? Gatorland, a 100-acre theme park and nature conservatory, has been around since 1949. Once a roadside attraction, this park boasts exhibits and entertainment featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles, an observation tower, a petting zoo, reptilian shows, a swamp walk and more.

4. Winter Park

For a change of pace, enjoy shopping at Winter Park. The upscale Park Avenue shopping district is home to a variety of designer stores and upscale dining. Don’t forget to take a walk in the park and check out the museums. You will find plenty to do here and you are sure to have fun even if you just choose to window-shop and not spend your money.

5. Downtown Orlando

About 20 minutes east of the theme parks you will find Downtown Orlando. Spend the afternoon having a picnic or taking a walk around the beautiful Lake Eola. While you’re there, don’t forget to be on the lookout for swans and take a ride on a swan boat. Have lunch at one of the many restaurants and then check out some of the museums. As for nightlife, you will find a variety of restaurants, bars and clubs that will suit you. Whether you want see a concert, enjoy the weather at a restaurant with patio dining, dance the night away, have a cigar or have a few drinks, you can do it all in Downtown Orlando.

These are just five things to do besides the theme parks. You will find plenty more to do too. So be creative with your itinerary planning. And remember that there is more to Orlando than just Mickey Mouse and roller coasters!

Author Bio: http://www.dwvacationhomes.com/ When coming to Orlando, be sure to consider Kissimmee vacation homes for your Orlando vacation and if your would like to read more about homes close to Disney, then be sure to read our Disney World Vacation Homes Blog.

Category: Travel
Keywords: disney vacation, disney vacation home, vacation home, home rental, disney parks, disney attractions